CSS Past Paper 2017 Agriculture and Forestry Descriptive (Part 2)
CSS | Past Paper | Group 5 | 2017 | Part 2 | Descriptive
Below is the solution to PART-II (COMPULSORY) of the CSS Past Paper 2017 Agriculture and Forestry Descriptive (Part 2).
Question 2
Energy is driving force for agricultural output. Fossil fuels have aggravated the problem of pollution. What are alternate sources which can be manipulated to earn carbon credit and results in comparable level of farm output with already available sources? Discuss in the light of scientific advancement and economics.
Introduction
Agriculture needs energy at almost every step, like ploughing, irrigation, harvesting, and transport. In Pakistan, most of this energy comes from fossil fuels like diesel and petrol. But these fuels cause pollution and climate change. Now, science is helping us to find new energy sources which are clean and can also help us earn carbon credits.
Problems with Fossil Fuels
- Fossil fuels release carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases.
- Pollution from tractors and tube wells harms the air, soil, and water.
- Fuel prices keep going up, making farming expensive.
- Use of diesel engines in irrigation leads to low energy efficiency.
Alternate Energy Sources in Agriculture
- Solar Energy
- Solar panels can run tube wells, lights, dryers, and small machines.
- Especially useful in sunny areas like Balochistan and South Punjab.
- Initial cost is high but maintenance is low.
- Helps reduce carbon emissions and can earn carbon credits.
- Biogas
- Made from animal dung and crop residues.
- Can be used for cooking, lighting, and even to run small engines.
- Helps in waste management and gives a by-product (slurry) which is used as organic fertilizer.
- Very suitable for rural areas with livestock population.
- Wind Energy
- Good for coastal areas like Sindh.
- Can be used for water pumping and grinding.
- Can earn carbon credits if used on large scale.
- Biofuels
- Crops like Jatropha and sugarcane can be used to produce biodiesel and ethanol.
- Reduces dependency on imported oil.
- But needs land and water, which may create food vs. fuel debate.
- Hydro Energy (Micro-hydro)
- In hilly areas, small water streams can be used to generate electricity.
- Clean and sustainable source, but needs technical expertise.
Scientific Advancements Supporting These Sources
- Smart Irrigation Systems: Run on solar power, saves water and energy.
- Energy-efficient machinery: Less fuel needed, more output.
- Precision farming: Reduces waste, increases productivity with less energy.
- Carbon Trading Markets: Technologies that reduce emissions can earn carbon credits which are sold in international markets.
Economic Comparison
| Source | Cost (Initial) | Running Cost | Pollution | Carbon Credit |
| Fossil Fuel | Low | High | High | No |
| Solar | High | Low | None | Yes |
| Biogas | Medium | Low | None | Yes |
| Wind | High | Low | None | Yes |
| Biofuels | Medium | Medium | Low | Yes |
Challenges
- High setup cost of solar and wind energy.
- Lack of awareness and training in rural areas.
- Need for government support and incentives.
- Policy issues in carbon credit trading.
Suggestions
- Government should provide subsidies for solar panels and biogas plants.
- Set up training centers in rural areas.
- Encourage public-private partnerships in clean energy projects.
- Create a proper system for carbon credit certification and selling.
Conclusion
Clean energy sources like solar, biogas, and wind can provide sustainable energy for agriculture. They reduce pollution and also offer a chance to earn carbon credits. With proper planning, technology, and support, Pakistan can shift towards green agriculture without reducing farm output. This shift is not just good for environment, but also for our economy in the long run.
Question 3
It is well established fact that irrigation water is the most critical factor in crop production and its efficient use is imperative in terms of water scarcity in semi-arid and arid zones of Pakistan. What technological advancements and up-gradations Government Institutions/Organizations at national and provincial levels have imparted in farm water management? Also elaborate environmental and economical issues related with these techniques of farm water management.
Introduction
Water is the backbone of agriculture. In Pakistan, where rainfall is low and weather is dry, proper irrigation is necessary to grow crops. But we waste a lot of water due to old and inefficient methods. So, government and some organizations have taken steps to improve farm water management through technology.
Importance of Efficient Irrigation in Arid Areas
- Pakistan’s major areas like Punjab, Sindh, and Balochistan face semi-arid and arid conditions.
- Water scarcity is increasing due to climate change, population growth, and inefficient irrigation.
- Traditional methods like flood irrigation waste more than 50% of water.
- Need to save water, increase yield, and make farming more sustainable.
Technological Advancements by Government & Institutions
1. Drip and Sprinkler Irrigation Systems
- Installed under schemes by Punjab Agriculture Department, PARC, and On-Farm Water Management (OFWM).
- These systems deliver water directly to plant roots and reduce waste.
- Mostly promoted in vegetables, orchards, and high-value crops.
2. Laser Land Leveling
- Government gave subsidies and training to farmers for using laser levelers.
- Helps to level the land properly, so water spreads evenly.
- Saves around 20-25% water and increases crop yield.
3. Lining of Watercourses
- OFWM Program helped in lining of canals and watercourses with concrete.
- Reduces water seepage and loss in water channels.
- More than 200,000 watercourses have been improved across provinces.
4. High-Efficiency Irrigation Systems (HEIS)
- Punjab Irrigated-Agriculture Productivity Improvement Project (PIPIP) promoted HEIS like drip and mini-sprinklers.
- Farmers get 60% subsidy on system installation.
- FAO and World Bank also supported these programs.
5. Use of ICT and Mobile Apps
- Some institutions have launched mobile apps for irrigation scheduling.
- Farmers can get data on weather, soil moisture, and when/how much to irrigate.
- Still in early stages but growing fast.
6. Research by Universities and PARC
- Agricultural universities and Pakistan Agricultural Research Council (PARC) are testing new irrigation methods, crop varieties, and drought-resistant crops.
Environmental Issues of Farm Water Technologies
- Over-extraction of groundwater for drip systems in some areas leads to aquifer depletion.
- Use of plastic pipes and drip materials can cause non-biodegradable waste.
- Watercourse lining can disturb natural seepage, which recharges underground water.
Economic Issues of Water Management Techniques
- High initial cost of drip/sprinkler systems. Many small farmers can’t afford even with subsidies.
- Maintenance cost and technical knowledge is required.
- Laser levelers and ICT tools not easily available in remote villages.
- Untrained farmers can damage these systems, causing loss instead of saving.
Suggestions
- Provide 100% subsidies for poor farmers in dry regions.
- Offer free technical training and regular maintenance services.
- Encourage local manufacturing of irrigation equipment to reduce costs.
- Build awareness campaigns in local languages for better adoption.
Conclusion
Water management is key to the future of agriculture in Pakistan. With modern techniques like drip irrigation, laser leveling, and lined canals, we can save water and grow more food. Government has done some good work, but more is needed, especially to support small farmers. If we invest properly in technology and training, we can fight water scarcity and grow our agriculture sector stronger and greener.
Question 4
What are prospects of biofuels crops in Pakistan? How much land and labour can be allotted for these crops to compromise with cereal and vegetable crops, economically and socially, keeping in view small holdings as some trading corporations have called for a worldwide ban on biofuels production, claiming that it contributes to food shortages?
Introduction
Biofuels are fuels made from plants and organic materials. In Pakistan, with rising fuel prices and energy crisis, biofuel crops like Jatropha, sugarcane, and canola offer a renewable solution. But there is a global debate that biofuels cause food shortages because they use land and water needed for food crops. So, in Pakistan, where many farmers have small land holdings, this is a serious issue.
Major Biofuel Crops in Pakistan
- Jatropha
- Can grow on marginal lands and does not need much water.
- Seeds produce biodiesel.
- Already tested by Pakistan State Oil (PSO) and NIBGE.
- Sugarcane
- Used for ethanol production (bioethanol).
- Pakistan already produces ethanol from sugar mills.
- Used in blending with petrol to make E10 fuel.
- Canola and Sunflower
- Used to make biodiesel.
- Can be grown in Rabi season without affecting main cereal crops much.
- Corn (Maize)
- Can also be used for ethanol but competes with food usage.
- Not much feasible in Pakistan due to small land size.
Land and Labour Allocation (A Practical View)
- Small farmers own less than 5 acres on average.
- They depend on food crops (like wheat, rice, vegetables) for survival and income.
- Giving land to biofuel crops means less food → less income and hunger risk.
Realistic Allocation
- Only marginal or unused land (around 2-3 million hectares) can be used for Jatropha.
- Government lands, canal sides, highways, and wastelands can be used for biofuel plantations.
- Labour needed for biofuel crops is not too high, which suits rural areas with underemployment.
Economic Considerations
Benefits:
- Reduces oil import bill and saves foreign exchange.
- Farmers can get extra income from selling biofuel crops.
- Can create jobs in rural areas in plantation and processing.
Risks:
- May affect food security if not managed well.
- Biofuel crops need investment in machinery for processing (like extraction plants).
- International market for biofuels is volatile and prices are not stable.
Social Considerations
- Poor farmers may be pressured to grow fuel crops instead of food.
- Might lead to land grabbing by big companies.
- Women and landless workers who depend on food crop farming may suffer.
International Debate: Ban on Biofuels?
- Some trading corporations and NGOs call for a ban on biofuels, especially from food crops.
- They say it increases global food prices and reduces availability.
- But if countries use non-food crops and wasteland, it can be a good solution.
Suggestions for Pakistan
- Use of marginal land only for biofuels (no competition with food).
- Focus on non-edible oil crops like Jatropha and algae in future.
- Provide subsidies and research support to farmers growing biofuel crops.
- Set up biofuel refineries near farming areas to reduce transport costs.
- Monitor land use policies to avoid food security issues.
Conclusion
Biofuels have a good future in Pakistan but only if we plan wisely. They can reduce our fuel import and give jobs to rural people. But we must avoid growing them on fertile land used for food crops. With careful planning, using marginal land and smart policies, Pakistan can balance energy needs with food security and help the environment at the same time.
Question 5
Rural demography in Pakistan is in transition phase towards mini-urbanization. How can this shift affect gender discrimination and parity in rural societies towards farm income, rural infrastructure and rural livelihood? Can present educational investment in rural areas improve the human resource involvement in the decision making and development? What are prospects of equitable and healthy rural communities in Pakistan?
Introduction
In Pakistan, the rural areas are slowly turning into mini-urban centers. More people are getting education, jobs, and access to mobile phones, transport and electricity. This change is called mini-urbanization. It is bringing both good and bad effects on rural life, including gender roles, income, infrastructure, and community living.
Effect on Gender Discrimination and Parity
1. Changing Roles of Women
- In old rural life, women mostly worked in homes or fields without pay.
- Now, with more awareness and education, women are joining income-generating activities like poultry farming, handicrafts, or small businesses.
- Mini-urbanization is slowly reducing gender discrimination, especially in educated families.
2. Access to Information
- Mobile phones and TV give rural women knowledge about their rights, markets, and health.
- Many NGOs are supporting women entrepreneurs in rural areas.
3. Still Challenges Remain
- Cultural barriers and patriarchy are still strong in many areas.
- Women still earn less and do more unpaid labor compare to men.
- In some places, women can’t take decisions about land or money.
Impact on Farm Income
- As rural areas develop, farmers now adopt better tools and machines, increasing crop yield.
- People shift from subsistence farming to commercial farming, boosting income.
- Women and youth are also involved in agro-businesses, which adds to family earnings.
- But due to land division, many farms become too small, making income unstable for small farmers.
Effect on Rural Infrastructure
- Mini-urbanization brings better roads, electricity, health centers, and schools.
- Markets are now closer to villages, helping farmers sell products easily.
- Internet and mobile services have made communication and learning easier.
- Still, in many backward areas, infrastructure growth is uneven and slow.
Impact on Rural Livelihood
- People now have more choices. Besides farming, they work in shops, transport, teaching, and services.
- Youth prefer jobs over farming, changing the rural economy.
- Livelihood becomes less dependent on one source, which is safer.
- On the other hand, traditional values, culture, and village unity are fading.
Role of Education in Human Resource Development
- Government and NGOs have built schools and colleges in rural areas.
- Educated youth are more confident, skilled, and aware of their rights.
- They take part in village committees, politics, and development projects.
- Women education helps improve family health, child education, and income.
- But dropout rate and poor school quality still limit full benefits.
Prospects of Equitable and Healthy Rural Communities
1. Positive Prospects
- With right policies, rural communities can become balanced and modern.
- Gender equality can be improved through education and legal reforms.
- Better income and services can reduce poverty and health issues.
- Local leaders and youth can lead community-driven development.
2. What Needs to Be Done
- More investment in girls’ education and skill training.
- Better healthcare and clean water in rural zones.
- Land reforms and support to small farmers and rural women.
- Promote rural entrepreneurship and home-based industries.
Conclusion
Rural Pakistan is changing fast due to mini-urbanization. This change is opening doors for gender equality, better income, and strong infrastructure. But we need to support it with good education, equal rights, and strong planning. If handled properly, rural areas can become modern, fair, and healthy communities that grow together with the rest of the country.
Question 6
Implications for the Sustainable Forest Management and Livelihoods Security rest on nonparticipatory roles of human population. How far present forest policies have prevented this role and how can policies be amended to prioritize people involvement in raising forest and plantations? Also elaborate preference of molecular biology over traditional forest breeding to commensurate purposes of ethanobotany, eco-tourism and carbon sequestration.
Introduction
Forests are not only important for environment but also for the livelihood of millions in Pakistan. But most forest policies in past were made without including local people who live near forests. Because of this, sustainable forest management (SFM) became weak and people also lost interest in protecting forests. Now, for real sustainability, people must be made a central part of forest policies. Also, new technologies like molecular biology can help improve forest conservation more than old methods.
Role of Human Participation in Forest Management
- People living near forests are direct users of forest resources (wood, herbs, fuel, grazing etc.)
- Without their participation, policies are often ignored or misused.
- Local people can help in plantation, fire control, wildlife protection, and forest monitoring.
- Forests can provide jobs, food, medicine, and support eco-tourism if managed together.
How Current Forest Policies Failed in Participation?
- Top-down Approach
- Most forest policies are made by central or provincial departments without local consultation.
- Local needs and knowledge are ignored.
- No Legal Framework for Community Forests
- Laws don’t support community-owned or managed forests.
- People feel disconnected from forest protection efforts.
- Weak Incentives
- No proper rewards or benefits to villagers who protect forests.
- So they don’t feel motivated.
- Limited Awareness Campaigns
- Lack of education about forest value in rural areas.
- People don’t know how they can take part in sustainable use.
How to Amend Policies for Better Public Involvement?
- Participatory Forest Management (PFM)
- Policies should allow Joint Forest Management Committees (JFMCs).
- Locals should be trained and given small stakes in forest produce.
- Community-Based Forest Enterprises
- Support locals to make small businesses like herbal products, bee-keeping, or eco-tourism.
- Link forest protection to their income.
- Policy Decentralization
- Transfer some power to local bodies and councils for forest management.
- Educational Programs
- Awareness drives through schools, mosques, and local gatherings.
- Include forest education in rural curricula.
- Carbon Credit Programs
- Let villagers earn from carbon sequestration through forest protection (like REDD+ projects).
Molecular Biology vs Traditional Forest Breeding
Traditional Forest Breeding
- Based on slow techniques like cross-breeding and selection.
- Takes years to develop new tree types.
- Less accurate and more vulnerable to climate and diseases.
Molecular Biology Advantages
- Faster Results
- Genes for drought, pest resistance can be added directly.
- Higher Precision
- Exact genetic traits are selected using DNA markers.
- Conservation of Rare Species
- Helps clone and protect endangered forest species.
- Better Growth & Carbon Absorption
- Genetically improved trees grow faster and absorb more CO₂, helping in carbon sequestration.
Role in Ethnobotany, Eco-tourism & Carbon Sequestration
- Ethnobotany
- Molecular tools help identify and preserve medicinal plants used in traditional health systems.
- Protects local knowledge and biodiversity.
- Eco-tourism
- Better-managed forests with diverse plants and wildlife attract tourists.
- Creates jobs and income for locals.
- Carbon Sequestration
- Fast-growing, genetically improved trees absorb more CO₂.
- Can be used in carbon trading markets.
- Helps fight climate change and earn money for communities.
Conclusion
For forests to be truly sustainable in Pakistan, local people must be brought into planning and management. Present policies are not enough and need major reforms to support community-based forest management. Also, science, especially molecular biology, gives us faster and better ways to improve forests, protect rare plants, and store carbon. With both people and technology, we can make forests a strong source of livelihood, biodiversity, and climate protection.
Question 7
Discuss in detail constraints in new rangelands development in low and high altitudes in Pakistan. What are reasons for degradation of old rangelands? Also explain vision for the formulation of the range policy in the country.
Introduction
Rangelands are natural grazing lands used by animals like goats, sheep, and cattle. In Pakistan, they cover about 60% of total land, especially in Balochistan, Sindh, Punjab, and KPK. But most rangelands are in poor condition due to overgrazing, drought, and lack of proper management. Development of new rangelands in both lowlands and highlands faces many problems. A proper range policy is also missing.
Constraints in New Rangelands Development
1. Climatic Constraints
- Low rainfall in low-altitude areas like Balochistan and Thar.
- Snow and harsh winters in high-altitude areas like northern KPK and Gilgit-Baltistan.
- Makes it hard to grow grasses and maintain animal grazing year-round.
2. Soil and Land Problems
- Soils are often salty, sandy, or rocky, not good for new plantations.
- Soil erosion due to wind and water removes topsoil needed for grasses.
3. Water Scarcity
- Lack of water for irrigated pastures or reseeding.
- In high-altitude rangelands, snowmelt is seasonal and unpredictable.
4. Poor Access and Infrastructure
- Remote areas have no roads, electricity, or communication.
- Transport of feed, seed, and livestock becomes difficult.
5. Lack of Technical Knowledge
- Farmers and herders don’t know about modern range management.
- No training or field support from government or research institutions.
6. Nomadic Grazing Systems
- Mobile herders don’t stay in one place, so sustainable practices are hard to apply.
- They often overgraze one area and move on, leaving land damaged.
7. No Government Support
- No regular budget for range development.
- Very few pilot projects or demonstration plots.
Causes of Degradation of Old Rangelands
1. Overgrazing
- More animals than land can support.
- Grasses don’t get time to regrow.
2. Deforestation
- Cutting of shrubs and trees for fuelwood reduces cover and biodiversity.
3. Uncontrolled Grazing
- No rotation or rest periods for land.
- Even young or recovering lands are grazed.
4. Population Pressure
- Growing human and livestock population leads to land competition.
5. Lack of Reseeding and Rehabilitation
- No effort to reseed grass or remove invasive weeds.
6. Drought and Climate Change
- Rainfall is decreasing, and temperature is increasing.
- Less moisture means less biomass for grazing.
Vision for Range Policy in Pakistan
To manage rangelands properly, Pakistan needs a clear and strong National Range Policy with the following goals:
1. Sustainable Use
- Control overgrazing with stock limits and grazing rotations.
- Encourage fencing and rest periods for regeneration.
2. Community Involvement
- Make policies with help of local herders and farmers.
- Form Village Range Committees to manage local grazing lands.
3. Rehabilitation Programs
- Reseeding native grasses and removing weeds.
- Plant drought-resistant and fast-growing grass species.
4. Water Conservation
- Build water ponds, check dams, and small canals for livestock and reseeding areas.
5. Research and Extension
- More research by NARC, Arid Zone Research Institutes, and agricultural universities.
- Train field officers and local people on rangeland care.
6. Climate Adaptation
- Prepare for drought and climate shocks through early warning and backup feed.
7. Livestock Improvement
- Introduce low-impact grazing animals and better breeds.
Conclusion
Pakistan’s rangelands have great value for livestock and rural economy, but they are ignored in policy and development. New rangeland projects face many climatic, technical, and social constraints, while old lands are degrading fast. Without a proper range policy, these lands will continue to suffer. A clear vision with community involvement, sustainable grazing, and technical support is the only way forward to restore and manage these lands for future generations.
Question 8
Write short notes on any Four of the following:
a. Silvopastoral planning
b. Forest and climate change; preparedness and strategies in Pakistan
c. Zero waste agriculture
d. Economic and social impacts of land reforms on rural societies in Pakistan
e. Improvement in animal husbandry practices
f. Biosafety regulations in Pakistan
a. Silvopastoral Planning
Introduction
Silvopastoral planning is a land management system where trees, pasture, and livestock are combined on the same land. In this system:
- Trees are grown along with grazing areas.
- It improves soil fertility, provides shade for animals, and protects biodiversity.
- Helps in carbon storage and reduces erosion.
- Useful in dry areas like Cholistan and Thar, where land is degraded.
- It supports sustainable livestock production and adds income from timber, fruits, or fodder.
b. Forest and Climate Change; Preparedness and Strategies in Pakistan
Introduction
Forests are both victims and protectors in climate change.
- In Pakistan, deforestation adds to greenhouse gases, worsening climate issues.
- To prepare, the government launched programs like:
- Billion Tree Tsunami (KPK)
- Ten Billion Tree Tsunami (Federal)
- REDD+ Program to earn carbon credits.
- Strategies include:
- Afforestation and reforestation.
- Involving local communities in forest protection.
- Making forest policies climate-smart.
- Forests help in temperature regulation, water conservation, and disaster risk reduction.
c. Zero Waste Agriculture
Introduction
Zero waste agriculture means using everything from the farm so nothing goes to waste. It is a part of sustainable farming.
- Crop leftovers are used as animal feed or compost.
- Animal waste goes into biogas plants for energy and fertilizer.
- Promotes organic farming with no chemicals.
- Reduces pollution and saves cost.
- Helps in climate change adaptation, especially in small farms.
- Example: A dairy farm using cow dung for biogas and organic fertilizer.
d. Economic and Social Impacts of Land Reforms on Rural Societies in Pakistan
Introduction
Land reforms in Pakistan aimed to distribute land fairly, but results were mixed.
Economic Impacts:
- Gave land to some poor farmers, improved their income and status.
- But many big landlords found legal tricks to avoid land limits.
- Reforms didn’t reduce rural poverty much in many areas.
Social Impacts:
- Created awareness among peasants about their rights.
- Reduced landlord control in some villages.
- But overall, social inequality remained due to poor implementation.
e. Improvement in Animal Husbandry Practices
Introduction
Animal husbandry is about raising animals for milk, meat, and wool. In Pakistan, old methods reduce productivity.
Improvements include:
- Better breeds through artificial insemination.
- Vaccination and disease control.
- Proper shelter, hygiene, and nutrition.
- Use of record-keeping and mobile apps for herd management.
- Government projects like Punjab Livestock Mission help train farmers.
- Result: More milk/meat yield, better animal health, and more income.
f. Biosafety Regulations in Pakistan
Introduction
Biosafety rules are made to ensure safe use of GMOs (Genetically Modified Organisms) and biotechnology.
- Pakistan approved the National Biosafety Rules in 2005.
- Under these rules, GM crops like Bt cotton are regulated.
- Institutions like National Biosafety Committee (NBC) review all GMO research and use.
- The aim is to protect human health, environment, and biodiversity.
- However, implementation is still weak due to lack of awareness and lab facilities.
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